Brodie Castle
Brodie, Forres, Morayshire.
Brodie Castle, located between Inverness and Aberdeen on the A96, was the ancient seat of the Clan Brodie from 1567 and was given to the care of the National Trust for Scotland in 1979 by Ninian Brodie, 25th Brodie of Brodie.
Open all year round, it is a popular attraction for its impressive family history, many antiques and unusual artefacts, walled garden, nature trails and walks and a wide range of events offering a great day-out destination for visitors. Added to this is the popular Playful Garden, opened in 2018, which offers all generations of families a chance to learn about the heritage of the Castle.
Brodie Castle stands on land that has belonged to the Brodie family for at least 800 years. The surrounding 70-hectare estate comprises striking formal 18th century designed landscapes, overlaid with a 19th century shrubbery, to the east, and natural woodland to the west.
It is home to an outstanding National Daffodil Collection, now recognised as one of horticultural significance and hosts the popular annual Daffodil Festival over the Easter Weekend. The daffodil collection was started by Major Ian Brodie, 24th Brodie of Brodie and clan chieftain, between 1899 and 1942. Ian Brodie raised tens of thousands of daffodil seedlings in the walled garden of his ancestral home, applying a meticulous method and a ruthless precision as he strove to improve the qualities of his favourite flowers. He was one of the greatest pioneers of daffodil hybridisation, spanning the first half of the century.
Today, visitors can enjoy the amazing range of over 120 different Brodie cultivars in the spring at the annual Daffodil Festival. All year round, visitors have the chance to learn about the heritage of the castle and the fascinating Brodie Family, with a choice of two great cafes to relax in afterwards. Team Brodie are always happy to welcome new volunteers to work with them to maintain this stunning setting in the care of the Trust.
Website: www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/brodie-castle
Telephone: 01309 641371
Opening times: The Castle and Playful Garden are open daily throughout the winter, 10am–4pm.
Admission costs: Garden only; adult £11, child £6.50, concession £9.50, family £35 (entry to Castle not included in these costs, please see website for all entry prices).
Garden of the Week is in association with Discover Scottish Gardens. For more information, advice and day-out ideas, visit discoverscottishgardens.org
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